Length
Full-size pool cues are about 57 to 58 in (roughly 145 to 147 cm), with 58 in the most common. That length suits most adults on a standard table. Very tall players sometimes prefer 59 to 61 in so their back hand sits comfortably; extensions that screw or slide into the butt do the same job without buying a longer cue.
| Cue type | Typical length | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Full-size playing cue | About 57 to 58 in | Most adults |
| Long cue or extended cue | About 59 to 61 in | Tall players, long reaches |
| Short cue | About 48 to 52 in | Children, cramped rooms near walls |
| Junior cue | About 36 to 52 in | Young children; pick by height and reach |
| Jump cue | About 40 to 42 in | Jump shots only; check league minimums |
Lengths vary between makers. Measure, or check the specification sheet.
Short and junior cues
A child using a full-size cue tends to hold it far up the wrap and stroke from the elbow out of line. A shorter cue lets them hold the butt properly. A rough rule: with the cue standing on its bumper, the tip should reach somewhere between the child's chin and shoulder. Short cues are also handy in rooms where a wall sits close to the table edge.
Weight
Pool cues usually weigh about 18 to 21 oz (510 to 595 g). Many players settle around 19 oz, and that is a sensible default if you have no preference yet.
| Lighter (about 18 to 18.5 oz) | Heavier (about 20 to 21 oz) | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Quick, lively, easier to accelerate | Solid, steady through the ball |
| Speed control | Fine touch on soft shots | Less effort for firm shots |
| Common complaint | Can feel "loose" on power shots | Can tire the arm; may encourage a pushy stroke |
A heavier cue does not automatically hit harder. Cue ball speed depends far more on how fast the tip is travelling at contact, and a lighter cue is easier to accelerate.
Balance point
Two cues of the same weight can feel different because of where the weight sits. Most playing cues balance roughly 17 to 19 in from the butt end. A cue that balances further forward feels heavier at the tip and steadier on long shots; one that balances further back feels lighter and livelier. To find it, rest the assembled cue on one finger and slide until it stays level.
Weight bolts
Many cues have a threaded hole in the butt for a steel weight bolt. Swapping bolts changes the weight by roughly half an ounce to an ounce or more and moves the balance point back. Check whether a cue has an adjustable bolt before buying if you are unsure of your preferred weight.
How to settle on yours
- Play a session with house cues of different weights if they are marked, and note which felt easiest to control.
- Start at that weight, or at 19 oz if nothing stood out.
- Give a new cue several weeks before changing anything. Feel adapts quickly.